Premier Cricket: Rupganj face Abahani with one win needed to clinch title

UNB News

Publish Date - April 20, 2019, 09:23 PM

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Dhaka, Apr 20 (UNB) — Legends of Rupganj are closer than ever to winning this edition of Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League as they head into Sunday’s game against defending champions Abahani Limited.

Rupganj, the table-leaders with 24 points, need two more points to clinch the title. They are closely followed by Abahani with 22 points. Both teams have played 14 matches.

The high-voltage game of the fourth round of Super League will be played at Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan in Savar.

This is the first time Rupganj have come this close to winning the title. Their coach Aftab Ahmed said he is confident about victory.

“If you think the opponent is too tough (then it is). See, we’ve won the first (against Abahani) on a good note. We’re focusing on having two more points,” he told reporters after Saturday’s practice session.

But he is aware of Abahani’s prowess. “They’re a good team and are doing well. But we aren’t bothered by that. We’ve played well so far. It’ll be a good match if we can replicate our performance,” he said.

Before joining Rupganj, Aftab was the assistant coach of Mohammedan. He has been doing well in his maiden stint as the head coach. He said he is trying to make his boys confident.

“I just try to make them believe that if you play good cricket, you can beat any team. At the same time, we’ve a good understanding that helped us build a superb team spirit,” Aftab said.

Abahani star Mohammad Mithun said although they are stronger than Rupganj on paper, they need to play better cricket to win.

“We have to play better cricket and ensure our natural game,” he told reporters at Mirpur National Cricket Academy.

While Rupganj face Abahani on Sunday, Prime Bank Cricket Club will take on Mohammedan Sporting Club. Prime Doleshwar Sporting Club will play against Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club.

On the same day, Brothers Union will face BKSP in the Relegation League to keep their Premier League fortune alive.